AppleCare+ Just Got More Expensive
AI-summarised brief · reviewed before publication
Apple has increased the cost of AppleCare+ protection plans for Mac and iPad devices, marking the latest in a series of price hikes following substantial increases to hardware prices last month. The adjustment adds $0.50 per month or $5 annually to individual plans, raising the monthly cost for a new 13-inch MacBook Air from $7.49 to $7.99. These increases apply exclusively to new sign-ups, meaning existing subscribers retain their current rates. AppleCare One, a bundled plan for up to three devices, remains unchanged at $19.99 per month. iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods protection plans are currently unaffected, though analysts anticipate future increases. The price changes are attributed to rising component costs, particularly memory and storage chips, driven by high demand from AI hyperscalers. While actual repair costs have not yet risen, the increase in protection plan fees may signal upcoming adjustments to service fees. Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman reported the changes, noting they currently impact only Mac and iPad coverage.
💡 Why It Matters
- · Rising component costs driven by AI infrastructure demand are forcing Apple to shift expenses directly to consumers through service fees.
- · This trend suggests that protection plan hikes often precede increases in actual repair costs, signaling a broader strategy to offset supply chain inflation.
